When choosing a pet, lizards can be fascinating companions. They are diverse in species, have varying care requirements, and can be incredibly rewarding for those who appreciate their unique behaviors and appearances. Whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or an experienced handler, selecting the right lizard species is crucial to ensure a healthy and enjoyable relationship with your new pet. In this article, we’ll explore the 6 best lizards to keep as pets, highlighting their care needs, temperament, and suitability for different types of owners.
1. Bearded Dragon
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular lizard species kept as pets. They are known for their friendly and docile nature, making them an excellent choice for beginners and families with children.
Appearance and Size:
Bearded dragons have a distinct appearance with a broad, triangular head and a “beard” of spiny scales under their chin. They can grow up to 24 inches in length, with males generally larger than females. Their coloration can vary from tan to red, orange, and even yellow.
Temperament:
Bearded dragons are known for their calm demeanor and can even be handled by children. They rarely show aggression, and with regular interaction, they can become quite tame. These lizards are also known to recognize their owners and can form a bond with them.
Habitat and Care:
Bearded dragons require a spacious terrarium, at least 40 gallons in size for adults. They need a basking spot with temperatures around 95-105°F and a cooler area around 75-85°F. UVB lighting is essential for their health, as it helps them synthesize vitamin D3, crucial for calcium absorption. Their diet consists of a mix of insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and a variety of vegetables and fruits.
Suitability:
Bearded dragons are ideal for beginners due to their manageable size, easy-to-meet care requirements, and friendly nature. They are also relatively long-lived, with a lifespan of 10-15 years, making them a long-term commitment.
2. Leopard Gecko
Leopard geckos are another favorite among reptile enthusiasts, particularly for those looking for a low-maintenance pet. They are small, easy to care for, and have a charming appearance.
Appearance and Size:
Leopard geckos are small lizards, typically reaching 8-10 inches in length. They have a distinct spotted pattern, resembling a leopard, with colors ranging from yellow to orange and brown. They also have a fat tail, which stores energy and can be an indicator of their health.
Temperament:
Leopard geckos are known for their calm and gentle nature. They are nocturnal, meaning they are more active during the evening and night. Leopard geckos rarely bite and can be easily handled, making them a great choice for beginners.
Habitat and Care:
A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a single leopard gecko. They do not require UVB lighting, which is a significant advantage for those looking for a simpler setup. The temperature in their enclosure should range from 75-85°F, with a warmer basking area of 88-92°F. Leopard geckos thrive on a diet of live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and occasionally waxworms. They also require a shallow dish of water and a hideout where they can retreat during the day.
Suitability:
Leopard geckos are perfect for beginners due to their small size, simple care requirements, and docile nature. They have a lifespan of 10-20 years, so they are also a long-term pet option.
3. Crested Gecko
Crested geckos are known for their unique appearance and low maintenance needs, making them a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts.
Appearance and Size:
Crested geckos have a distinctive appearance with eyelash-like crests that run from their eyes down to their tails. They come in various colors, including shades of red, orange, yellow, and brown. These geckos are relatively small, reaching about 7-9 inches in length.
Temperament:
Crested geckos are generally calm and tolerate handling well, though they can be a bit jumpy. They are nocturnal and are more active during the night. With regular interaction, they can become quite tame and are known to be gentle.
Habitat and Care:
Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they enjoy climbing, so a tall enclosure is preferred. A 20-gallon tank with plenty of branches, plants, and hiding spots is ideal. They thrive at room temperature, between 70-80°F, and do not require additional heating unless your home is particularly cold. Crested geckos do not need UVB lighting, making their care more straightforward. Their diet can include commercially available gecko food, which is a powdered diet mixed with water, along with occasional live insects like crickets or fruit purees.
Suitability:
Crested geckos are suitable for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Their minimal care requirements, small size, and friendly nature make them an excellent choice for anyone interested in keeping a pet lizard.
See Also: Where Is the Best Place to Find Geckos
4. Blue-Tongue Skink
Blue-tongue skinks are larger lizards known for their distinctive blue tongues and gentle disposition. They are great pets for those who want a more interactive reptile.
Appearance and Size:
Blue-tongue skinks are robust lizards, reaching 18-24 inches in length. They have a broad, flattened body, short legs, and, of course, their signature blue tongue. Their coloration is typically a mix of browns, grays, and yellows, with banding along their body.
Temperament:
Blue-tongue skinks are known for their calm and docile nature. They can be handled regularly and often enjoy interacting with their owners. These lizards are generally solitary but can be quite friendly and even curious.
Habitat and Care:
Blue-tongue skinks require a large enclosure, at least 40-55 gallons, with a substrate they can burrow into, such as aspen shavings or cypress mulch. They need a basking spot with temperatures around 95°F and a cooler side of the tank around 75°F. UVB lighting is essential for their health. Blue-tongue skinks are omnivores and have a varied diet that includes insects, fruits, vegetables, and even high-quality dog food or specially formulated skink food.
Suitability:
Blue-tongue skinks are great for intermediate to advanced reptile keepers due to their larger size and slightly more complex care requirements. They are long-lived, often reaching 15-20 years, so they require a significant commitment.
5. Green Anole
Green anoles are small, active lizards known for their vibrant green color and ability to change shades. They are an excellent choice for beginners looking for a lively pet.
Appearance and Size:
Green anoles are slender lizards, typically growing to about 5-8 inches in length. They are bright green, though they can change to brown depending on their mood or environment. Males have a pink dewlap, a flap of skin under their throat that they use to communicate.
Temperament:
Green anoles are active and enjoy climbing and exploring their environment. They are generally not aggressive, but they can be skittish and prefer not to be handled too often. These lizards are best enjoyed as display animals rather than pets to be frequently handled.
Habitat and Care:
A 10-20 gallon vertical tank with plenty of plants, branches, and hiding spots is ideal for green anoles. They thrive in warm, humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 75-80°F and a basking spot of around 85-90°F. UVB lighting is necessary for their health. Green anoles primarily eat small insects like crickets, fruit flies, and mealworms. It’s important to mist their enclosure regularly to maintain humidity and provide water droplets for drinking.
Suitability:
Green anoles are suitable for beginners who want a small, active lizard that is easy to care for. They have a shorter lifespan of 4-8 years, making them a good choice for those not ready for a long-term commitment.
6. Uromastyx
Uromastyx lizards, also known as spiny-tailed lizards, are fascinating reptiles that thrive on a vegetarian diet. They are hardy and can be a great pet for someone looking for a unique lizard.
Appearance and Size:
Uromastyx lizards vary in size depending on the species, ranging from 10 to 18 inches in length. They have stout bodies, strong legs, and a thick, spiny tail that they use for defense. Their coloration can include vibrant blues, oranges, yellows, and greens, especially in males.
Temperament:
Uromastyx are generally calm and can be handled with care. They are known for their curious and alert nature but can be shy at first. With time and regular interaction, they can become quite tame.
Habitat and Care:
Uromastyx require a large enclosure, at least 40-55 gallons, with plenty of space to explore and bask. They thrive in hot, arid environments, with a basking spot reaching 100-120°F and a cooler area around 80-90°F. UVB lighting is essential for their health. Uromastyx are herbivores, and their diet should consist of leafy greens, vegetables, and occasionally seeds. They do not require live insects, which makes their care a bit easier for those who may be squeamish.
Suitability:
Uromastyx are suitable for reptile keepers who are looking for a pet that is unique and has specific care requirements. They can live up to 15-20 years, so they require a long-term commitment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lizard as a pet requires careful consideration of the species’ care requirements, temperament, and your experience as a reptile owner. The 6 lizards listed above are some of the best options for those interested in keeping a reptile as a pet, each offering unique characteristics and challenges. Remember that all lizards require a commitment to their care and well-being, so be sure to research and prepare properly before bringing one into your home.